Zoology and wildlife conservation

Human leptin characterization

Article Abstract:

A mass spectrometric analysis of leptin from obese human females shows that the fragmentation patterns of recombinant and endogenous proteins are almost identical, except that the former has an amino-terminal methionine. Both contain a carboxy-terminal disulphide bond, as shown by molecular mass measurements. Immunopurified leptin shows a wild-type sequence after removing amino-terminal signal peptide and introducing carboxy-terminal disulphide bond.

Leptin and the regulation of body weight in mammals

Article Abstract:

The ability of vertebrates to store sufficient amounts of energy-dense triglyceride in adipose tissues ensures survival during periods of food deprivation. However excess adipose tissue can be maladaptive. Leptin, which is a hormone secreted by adipose tissue, is a part of the physiological system that regulates fuel stores and energy balance. Its role in the control of body weight and relevant to the pathogenesis of obesity is considered.

Acute stimulation of glucose metabolism in mice by leptin treatment

Article Abstract:

Leptin is the product of the obese gene in mice and humans, helping to regulate the amount of fat in the body and inducing weight loss. However, leptin's effects on adipose tissue have confounded previous studies of its effects on glucose metabolism. A new study of mice shows that leptin decreases liver glycogen and increases glucose turnover, thereby inducing a negative energy balance and increasing the metabolism of glucose and lipids.